VIRIDIANA M. MARTINEZ

Hometown: Somerset, New Jersey
School: Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Major: Public Policy

Viridiana was born and raised in New Jersey to Dominican and Mexican parents. Her parents immigrated to the United States with their names and their values; most importantly, the value of service. Such value has inspired her to dedicate her life to public service in order to make democracy work for everyone.

Viridiana studies Public Policy with a minor in Latino and Caribbean Studies at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. She is an Undergraduate Associate of the Eagleton Institute of Politics, where she analyzes power and political decisions. She serves on the executive board of the Mexican American Student Association, participated in the Road to Government, Policy, and Service Mentorship Program, and registered voters through the Darien Civic Engagement Project. Viridiana is also a New Jersey Governor’s Hispanic Fellowship Alumna, where she enhanced her leadership development and served as a Policy Intern for a New Jersey State Assemblywoman.

Prior to Rutgers University, Viridiana attended Raritan Valley Community College. Along with graduating with her associate degree and high academic honors, she served as the President of the Orgullo Latino Club on campus, participated in the RVCC Sanofi Corporate Mentorship Program, and was an inducted member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Academic Honor Society. Upon completing her undergraduate degree, Viridiana will pursue a master’s degree in Public Policy for a career in public service.

As a CHCI participant, Viridiana hopes to enhance her understanding regarding the complexity of government and the legislative processes. She aspires to create systems of support for marginalized communities.